During a recent meeting of the Palm Beach Gardens City Council, officials discussed the proposed budget for fiscal years 2024 and 2025, highlighting significant efforts to maintain financial stability while avoiding a tax increase. The Budget Review Board Committee expressed appreciation for the transparency and accessibility of the budget process, which has been made available to residents.

The proposed operating and total millage rate was set at 5.0537 mills, exceeding the rollback rate of 4.7798 mills by 5.73%. This decision was unanimously approved by the council, reflecting a commitment to fiscal responsibility and community engagement.

Council members praised the city’s conservative approach to budgeting, which has resulted in consistent growth in property assessed values over the past 13 years and strong reserves totaling $28 million. The budget also includes provisions for various departmental functions and projects, with an emphasis on public safety and staffing to accommodate the city's growing population.

Key highlights from the budget include funding for a new indoor recreation facility and ongoing improvements to existing parks. Council members noted the importance of maintaining competitive salaries to retain talent within the city workforce, especially in light of post-COVID salary compression.

The council concluded the meeting by reaffirming their commitment to returning excess revenue to taxpayers, marking the third consecutive year of lowering the millage rate. This approach sets Palm Beach Gardens apart from neighboring cities, where tax reductions are less common. The final budget hearing is scheduled for September 19, where further discussions will take place before the budget is finalized.